Name: Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Million Dollar Baked Ziti takes traditional baked pasta to an indulgent new level. Creamy ricotta, tangy sour cream, and melty mozzarella combine to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy meal at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With a balance of savory marinara, hearty ground beef, and a golden-brown cheese topping, this recipe is both comforting and flavorful. The layers of pasta and creamy cheese ensure every bite is packed with deliciousness. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti pasta as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
Assemble the Dish: Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta, followed by the meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Comfort Food Experience

If there’s one dish that embodies the phrase “food for the soul,” it’s baked ziti. But when it comes to elevating the beloved classic, the Million Dollar Baked Ziti takes things to an entirely new level. This rich, cheesy, and heartwarming pasta bake is the perfect combination of tradition and indulgence. From its creamy ricotta and sour cream layers to the golden-brown mozzarella topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone craving more.

Why Million Dollar Baked Ziti Stands Out

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just the name—it’s the luxurious combination of flavors and textures that come together in each bite. While traditional baked ziti is already a staple in many households, this version incorporates a twist that transforms it from everyday fare to a dish worthy of special occasions. The key lies in the balance between savory marinara sauce, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta, layered and baked to perfection.

Unlike the simpler versions of baked ziti, the Million Dollar Baked Ziti includes sour cream, which adds an extra layer of richness and tang. Combined with ricotta cheese, it creates a smooth, luscious filling that contrasts beautifully with the robust, meaty marinara sauce. The final touch is the melted mozzarella and Parmesan topping, which forms a golden crust that seals in all the delicious flavors below.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions. Hosting a family dinner? It’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Need a dish for a potluck or a neighborhood gathering? This baked ziti travels well and can be easily reheated. Planning a cozy date night at home? Pair it with a glass of red wine and a crisp side salad for a restaurant-quality experience.

Moreover, this recipe is forgiving and adaptable. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, it’s easy to prepare and offers plenty of room for creativity. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or add your own unique flair.

What Makes It Million Dollar Worthy?

The “million dollar” moniker is no exaggeration. This baked ziti recipe earns its title with premium ingredients and a thoughtful preparation process. The combination of ricotta and sour cream is the heart of its creamy texture, while the inclusion of fresh basil and garlic elevates the dish with aromatic depth. Each layer of pasta, cheese, and sauce is designed to deliver maximum flavor, ensuring that no bite is bland or uninspired.

Even the presentation is show-stopping. When you pull this dish out of the oven, with its bubbling cheese and golden crust, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of pride. The aromas wafting through the kitchen are enough to gather the entire household around the table before the first serving is even plated.

A Family-Friendly Recipe

One of the standout features of Million Dollar Baked Ziti is how well it caters to family mealtime. Pasta is a universal favorite, and this recipe builds on that foundation by adding layers of comfort and indulgence. It’s also a great way to sneak in extra protein (thanks to the ground beef) and calcium (courtesy of all the cheese).

For picky eaters, this dish is a lifesaver. Its familiar flavors and gooey, cheesy goodness make it a hit with children. At the same time, adults appreciate the rich, satisfying taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Tips for Success

To make the best Million Dollar Baked Ziti, here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking. To avoid this, cook the ziti just until it’s al dente. This way, it will maintain its texture after baking.
Use Quality Ingredients: Because this dish relies on simple ingredients, using high-quality versions makes a significant difference. Opt for a good marinara sauce, fresh garlic, and authentic ricotta cheese.

Layer Strategically: Even layering is key to getting a taste of every component in each bite. Spread the cheese mixture and meat sauce evenly for the best results.
Don’t Skip the Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the baked ziti.
Let It Rest: After taking the dish out of the oven, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.

Customizing Your Million Dollar Baked Ziti

While the traditional version is hard to beat, there’s plenty of room for personalization. Here are some ways to adapt the recipe:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free.

Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a little kick.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or fontina for unique flavor combinations.

Leftovers Done Right

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is even better the next day. The flavors have time to meld together, creating a richer, deeper taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

If you’re cooking for a smaller household, this recipe can also be divided into two smaller baking dishes. Bake one and freeze the other for a quick and satisfying meal later.

Conclusion:

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From its enticing aroma and golden-brown appearance to its creamy, cheesy flavor, this dish has a way of making any occasion feel special. Whether you’re serving it to guests or indulging in a quiet dinner at home, it delivers comfort, satisfaction, and a touch of luxury.